Drysdale, who passed away suddenly earlier this spring, was recognized for his work in Economic and Rural Development and Tourism by promoting Nova Scotia seafood, food and beverage and for connecting companies in Nova Scotia with global markets.

In all, the premier awarded 26 civil servants who go above and beyond to deliver high-quality programs and services to Nova Scotia families, communities and businesses.

"I am tremendously proud of all public servants for their commitment, dedication and hard work on behalf of the people of Nova Scotia," said Premier McNeil. "Today, we celebrate and thank some of the employees who have made exceptional contributions over the past year. Through resourcefulness, creativity, innovation and leadership, these public servants have made positive and lasting differences in the lives of all Nova Scotians."

Other recipients included:

- Dawn Frail, Health and Wellness, a key member of the team implementing Nova Scotia's Drug Information System, a comprehensive patient medication profile for every person who has a prescription filled in the province

- Patricia Murray, Health and Wellness, who was the driving force behind Together We Can, Nova Scotia's first mental health and addictions strategy

- Tara Moore, Education and Early Childhood Development, who brought the SchoolsPlus model from concept to reality to support students, families and communities throughout Nova Scotia

- The Parks and Protected Areas Plan team, 22 employees from Environment and Natural Resources, whose exemplary commitment to public engagement and collaboration with community groups, industry, non-government organizations and hundreds of Nova Scotians ensured land protection was open, accessible and fair.

The Premier's Award of Excellence is the most prestigious award a government employee can receive. It symbolizes the outstanding contributions of employees and teams in five categories: management and career excellence, innovation and creativity, client service delivery, relationship building and partnering, and healthy workplaces.

A selection panel evaluated 23 nominations.

"This award is a high honour and represents an achievement recipients can be proud of for a lifetime," said Labi Kousoulis, Minister, Public Service Commission. "To receive it is to know that your work made a difference to the people of Nova Scotia."

For more information about the Premier's Award of Excellence, this year's recipients and their work, visit www.novascotia.ca/pae .